Victor Wembanyama’s meteoric rise in the NBA has received yet another boost as his debut jersey from his first regular-season game fetched an astonishing $762,000 at a recent Sotheby’s auction. The initial estimate of $80,000-$120,000 was quickly left in the dust as spirited bidding for the San Antonio Spurs’ white jersey soared, surpassing expectations and reaching one of the highest sums ever paid for an NBA rookie debut jersey. It’s worth noting that the record for any game-worn rookie jersey still stands at $3.6 million, a figure achieved with the sale of a Kobe Bryant jersey in 2021.
The jersey in question was worn by the towering 7’4″ Wembanyama during a game against the Dallas Mavericks on October 25. The auction witnessed a remarkable 62 bids, with intense activity in the final minutes. At just 19 years old, Wembanyama is already making an impact, averaging impressive statistics this season with 18.6 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game.
This sale follows another high-profile auction where a jersey worn by Wembanyama during his NBA Summer League debut fetched $62,000. Sotheby’s recent partnership with the NBA as the official game-worn jersey partner kicked off with this auction, presenting the opportunity for fans and collectors to own a piece of basketball history. The event saw nearly 60 other NBA jerseys being sold, resulting in a total auction revenue exceeding $1.2 million. With 176 bidders from 14 countries participating, it was a truly global affair.
While Wembanyama’s debut jersey stole the spotlight, the jerseys of other notable NBA players’ season openers garnered more modest prices. LeBron James’ jersey sold for $50,820, while Damian Lillard’s Milwaukee Bucks jersey went for $30,480. Jerseys worn by Giannis Antetokounmpo fetched $25,400, reigning MVP Nikola Jokic’s jersey sold for $17,780, Steph Curry’s for $27,940, and Jayson Tatum’s for $8,890.
In a world where sports memorabilia continues to hold immense value, the sale of Victor Wembanyama’s debut jersey at such a staggering price reflects the excitement and anticipation surrounding this rising star. His exceptional performance on the court combined with his young age has captured the attention and imaginations of fans and collectors alike. As the NBA continues to captivate audiences around the world, the allure of game-worn jerseys and the stories they tell remain an enduring part of basketball culture.
